Foam Association Paper Defends Stewardship

Loudon, TN, March 8, 2012 -- A white paper published by the Polyurethane Foam Association provides extensive background and a comprehensive discussion of the U.S. flexible polyurethane foam industry today related to production issues and solid waste management and recycling of post-consumer foam products that contain flame retardants.
 
The white paper, developed in response to an invitation from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), makes a strong case for the U.S. foam industry's record of stewardship and the value of preserving a market for post-consumer scrap foam, which can be used in manufacturing bonded carpet cushion in accordance with environmental guidelines.
 
"This was a collaborative effort between PFA and a number of other groups that were instrumental in helping to shape this report," said Robert Luedeka, executive director of the PFA.

"There is much misinformation published about flame retardants and flexible polyurethane foam. We hope this document provides clarity and support for science-based regulatory decisions related to foam characteristics, handling, recycling and disposal."
 
In addition to the PFA, which led the effort, the organizations that participated in the review process were the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry, the Alliance for Flexible Polyurethane Foam, the Carpet Cushion Council, Europur, the International Sleep Products Association, the American Home Furnishings Alliance and the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer's Association International.
 
UNIDO assists members of the Stockholm Convention, an international treaty alliance of 127 countries aimed at protecting human health and the environment from the threats posed by persistent organic pollutants.